Ellandi’s Robinson to chair High Street Task Force

Mark Robinson, co-founder of developer Ellandi, has been named the new chairman of the government’s High Street Task Force. The task force, members of which include the Royal Town Planning Institute, the BID Foundation and accountancy firm PwC, was established to direct expertise and money to various locations across the country. More recently, it has launched a specific programme of measure to help businesses during the Covid-19 crisis. Robinson said: “No-one underestimates the challenges to our town centres, but this long-term initiative, running until 2024, shows the government’s commitment to our towns and the transformation required. I look forward to making change happen.” High streets minister Simon Clarke described Robinson as “a strong voice for ensuring that local businesses and communities get the support they need to reopen safely in the coming weeks”. Robinson’s appointment comes as the task force outlines fresh support for high streets as shops prepare to reopen next week. Local councils and other stakeholders will be able to access free online training programmes and webinars, as well as data around recovery planning and coordination, public space and place marketing. To send feedback, e-mail tim.burke@egi.co.uk or tweet @_tim_burke or @estatesgazette